How can I backup Outlook 2007 without opening Outlook

[jb777]

Here is my problem:
Running XP Pro 32bit, Office 2007 Profeessional.

For some reason unknown to me, Outlook gives me a dialog box saying "Cannot start Microsoft Office Outlook. Cannot open the Outlook Window."

Is there any way to be able to backup all of my emails, contacts, calender, etc. with out opening outlook?

Thanks for the help
jb

 

[traycee]

By default, Outlook stores the .pst file

C:\Users\User'sName\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Outlook

App data is a hidden file so you'll need to show that first. Normally, I like to change the path so it stores in the users home directory. That way it gets backed up along with all of their documents. Simpler that way.

 

[jb777]

What if I haven't done a backup .pst file for a few months? How can I find these files (not the .pst files)that the normal outlook .pst backs up?
jb

 

[traycee]

The .pst file in that path contains everything you see in Outlook. Everything. In other words, you could take that file, put it on another computer, and be back in business complete with contacts, messages, calendar stuff, etc.

 

[jb777]

Even if I haven't done a backup for a few months?
jb

 

[cmeagan656]

Yes, even if you haven't done a backup for a few months. The file path on Windows XP Pro is different than what traycee mentioned. His/her path is for Vista and Windows 7 operating systems. The path you're looking for is something similar to C:\documentsandsettings\User'sName\LocalSettings\Microsoft\Outlook. I'm using Windows 7 now and I don't have XP Pro available at the moment so I'm going on memory. Simply copy the .pst file from that location. NOTE: the PST file will be the current file. If it is corrupt then your copy of it will also be corrupt.

What I'd do is run the Office Diagnostics tool from any Word or Excel (Office Button ->Word or Excel Options and then click on Diagnose) and see if that fixes your problem with Outlook. It will repair Outlook if it can and leave your data in tact.

Hope this helps.

Please help us help you. Read Tek-Tips posting polices before posting.

Canadian members check out Tek-Tips in Canada for socializing, networking, and anything non-technical.